The Mental Suppository: Recent Episodes
Bret M. Herholz
A weekly entertainment & pop culture podcast hosted by Bret M. Herholz, Jamie Billings, Andrew Shanley and Kevin Barbare. Featuring group discussions, interviews and live dramatic readings from the best in comics, cosplay, music, pulp fiction & more.
2022 has been a productive (and very silly) year for the Mental Suppository Podcast. Especially with the amount of “sponsors”. The podcast had so many this year that it couldn’t fit just one episode!! So, for your listening pleasure here’s PART TWO of AND NOW ANOTHER WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR. A collection of some of the commercials that appeared this season on the Mental Suppository podcast. AND coming out on Christmas Day will be a DOUBLE ALBUM of all the sponsors that appeared in parts one and two on Bandcamp!
The second year of the Mental Suppository Podcast is rapidly coming to a close.
And much like year one, the podcast has had its share of unique "sponsors".
And this year even more. So many as a matter of fact that the team has compiled all of them into TWO special episodes that will be available as a double album near the end of the year!! That's right!!
We've gone all Use Your Illusion without Axl Rose's outbursts. So sit back and enjoy.
It didn’t matter if The Fall Guy or the Dukes of Hazzard wasn’t being shown that night. Once you saw the logo and heard the music for A CBS SPECIAL PRESENTATION, you knew something good was about to happen.
From Halloween till Christmas Time (and later New Years), it was all about the specials.
As a kid growing up in the 1970s and 1980s From October 31st till December 31st you had something to look forward to when CBS would roll out all their prime holiday specials.
This was in the days before streaming, DVDS, Videocassettes or even taping them off the television set. You had to physically WAIT an entire year before you saw Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Garfield, Rudolph, the Grinch or Frosty embark on their holiday specials.
Get into your coziest pajamas and slippers, make yourself a cup of cocoa, get a plate of Christmas cookies and remember all the great Christmas specials (and movies) with us….
…oh and try not to think about Woodstock actually eating another bird in the Charlie Brown Thanksgiving special.
The recent passing of television, stage and voice actor Kevin Conroy marked the end of an era.
For many who grew up in the 1990s, he WAS Batman starting with the iconic Batman the Animated Series and has continued to voice the character for the past 30 years in various spin offs, direct to DVD productions and video games.
Although admitting he wasn’t an aficionado, it has been a character he has enjoyed returning to alongside Mark Hamill’s iconic take on the Joker time and again. As well as someone who has been appreciative of the fans love and support for his take on the character over the years he has voiced him.
Being longtime fans of Batman TAS (which was the subject of our very first episode) we felt we needed to pay tribute to someone who this podcast feels is THE definite Batman.
Kevin gave the character a portrayal and a voice so many live action productions have missed the mark on.
For all of us at the Mental Suppository, along with so many fans out there, Kevin Conroy was and always will be… THE Batman.
All who take on the role after him have some very big shoes to fill.
Each year, the Philadelphia Fringe Festival brings local, national and international art to Philadelphia with a nearly month-long extravaganza of performing arts.
But with how much it costs to enter, can most performing artist afford to apply? And even if they are able to get in, it's not a given that these artists will turn a profit on their performances.
Most artists who are trying to make their voices heard do not make a lot of money and depend on art shows and events to make ends meet. The Free Fringe in Philadelphia offers artists a more affordable alternative to the costs of applying to Philadelphia Fringe.
In this episode, Bret talks with Murphy Grumbar who tells him about his own recent experiences putting together and staging a performance piece for the Free Fringe and his thoughts on the performing art scene in Philadelphia.
In previous episodes we’ve proven the reviews on Prime are… interesting.
Hearing them out of context makes them all the more confusing. It does make one wonder if these people actually WATCHED the movie they reviewed.
The answer to that is PROBABLY NOT but we thought we’d look at a few more anyway.
Join Bret, Jamie and Wayne as they scratch their heads and feel they lost 30 minutes of their lives they’ll never get back as they wade through more movie reviews.
Before the early 1980s, Hanna-Barbera and Filmation were the only two industry juggernauts that ruled the Saturday Morning airwaves with HB ahead of the pack.
And nobody could catch up to either in popularity and the amount of animated shows they produced in a factory-like way.
But with the advent of weekday afternoon and first run syndication in the 1980s, other companies started to appear and for the first time become real competition for the two studio giants of the animated landscape.
The one that popped out of nowhere and was stiff competition for both was a French/American company called D.I.C. Or Diffusion Information Communications was its full name … although there are some in the industry that thought it should have stood for Do It Cheaply.
Though, much like a great number of these companies that cropped up in the 80s, D.I.C produced a great number of shows based on toys (M.A.S.K and Care Bears) as well as shows based on comic strip characters (Heathcliff and Dennis the Menace).
Their most popular and best remembered character might very well be INSPECTOR GADGET. An original character that was not connected to a popular toy line. Although one would come out of its popularity.
D.I.C was also infamous in the industry for underbidding properties and courting toy companies away from other studios. A good case in point is the way they took over Alvin and the Chipmunks from Hanna-Barbera legends Ruby-Spears and GI Joe away from Sunbow after the failure of GI Joe the Movie.
So, join Bret, Jamie and Andrew as they take a trip down memory lane as they prove once and for all that they DO know D.I.C.
And a big thank you to performer Madam Misfit for allowing us to use her electro swing version of INSPECTOR GADGET at the end of this episode.
Please go to her website to learn more about her as well as listen to and purchase her music. And follow her on social media.
The review section on Amazon.
It is a silly place.
Sometimes you wonder if the people reviewing actually watched the movie they just reviewed. Or understand how to write a cohesive thought.
Well… we know the answer to that.
Jamie has yet again tasked Bret and Andrew to try and figure out the item the person is trying to review. Some of which only sum things up in two sentences. The thing you discover they hate is the biggest surprise of all.
And since it’s Halloween, the guys also go into a few of the movies that are at the top of their must watch list every Halloween.
So join us and don’t eat too much of the candy you intended to pass out to trick or treaters.
Much like Allan Sherman, Spike Jones and Stan Freberg before him, Alfred Matthew “Weird Al” Yankovic has made a career out of making funny music, song parodies and song styles. However, Weird Al has had a long and very successful career doing two things most people would think wouldn’t get you very far in the business. Having fun and not taking himself seriously.
Not only that. But doing it without being vulgar and dirty. Proving you can make people laugh without swearing or using sexual humor to sell your work.
His career has had its ups and downs… but just when you think it's over, he comes back and does something that just catches peoples attention in a way that’s just as extraordinary as the man himself. Now he’s the subject of a biopic. Much like the man it features, it's not taken at all too seriously.
So join Bret, Jamie, Andrew and Wayne as they discuss how they got into Weird Al’s music and why they think he’s been able to stay popular for so long. Because things are gonna get a little… weird!
It was announced recently that groove metal band PANTERA was planning a reunion tour. For some fans, the concept might seem a bit strange considering the two creative driving members of the band, Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darryl Abbot, are both no longer with us. Guitarist and drummer Zakk Wylde and Charlie Benante have been announced to fill in for the late Abbot brothers. While both are very respected in the metal community, the Abbot brothers brought a very unique sound to the band which is very difficult to replicate. Not to mention both Wylde and Benante have very unique styles of their own. How will this change the dynamic of the band Pantera on what can really be considered both a reunion and a tribute tour.
In this episode, Jamie, Bret and Wayne discuss not only Pantera but other bands as well who have replaced a member of the band and remained successful… if not more successful in some instances. Whereas other bands attempted to do the same thing but fell short. Why is it that it worked for AC/DC or Van Halen but it was less successful for the Doors or Aerosmith. Or in that case, you could never picture the Beatles or Nirvana continuing with anyone other than the members of the classic line up. Listen in and draw your own conclusion.
The last time Fletch hit the screens was back in 1989’s Fletch Lives, the last to feature Chevy Chase in the title role. Unlike the previous big screen appearance, that movie wasn’t based on any of the novels written by Gregory McDonald. And it showed.
Over the years there have been attempts to start up the franchise again, one being an adaptation of McDonalds prequel novel Fletch Won which would have been spearheaded by Kevin Smith and was rumored to star either Jae Lee or Ben Affleck in the starring role. That version of Fletch never came to fruition.
But it would appear Fletch has finally returned. This time in the guise of Mad Men star Jon Hamm.
In this episode Bret and Andrew discuss their first takes on the trailer for Confess Fletch. Based on the second novel in Gregory McDonalds series.
And from first take Hamm’s version of the character is closer to the character that McDonald wrote than the one Chevy Chase played. Which was basically just Chevy Chase as Chevy Chase.
So it's time for Fletch to Confess. But who knows what the outcome will be.
While the cat is away, the mice will play…
With Bret gone from the week Jamie puts Andrew and Wayne to the test by reading to them some really vague reviews on Amazon Prime and see if they can match up the review with the movie it’s reviewing. It’s trickier than you’d think.
So put on your thinking cap and guess along with the guys.
While the cat is away, the mice will play…
With Bret gone from the week Jamie puts Andrew and Wayne to the test by reading to them some really vague reviews on Amazon Prime and see if they can match up the review with the movie it’s reviewing. It’s trickier than you’d think.
So put on your thinking cap and guess along with the guys.
Fan conventions have been slowly making a return since last year.
And the Mental Suppository Podcast makes its first visit to Fan Expo Boston.
People seemed starved for the event as well as the interaction between their favorite artists, celebrities and fellow cosplayers. And Jamie, Andrew and Bret got into the spirit of it by dressing as their favorite characters.
Wayne chose to dress as Wayne Neves from the hit Channel 58 sitcom Fuck You, Wayne.
Join Jamie, Andrew and Bret as they discuss their favorite moments from the event and their thoughts on both comic book culture but also cosplay culture. And how it can be a therapeutic experience for some people.
And a big shout out to Pink Taco in Boston for great service and feeding four very hungry middle aged men.
Fan conventions have been slowly making a return since last year.
And the Mental Suppository Podcast makes its first visit to Fan Expo Boston.
People seemed starved for the event as well as the interaction between their favorite artists, celebrities and fellow cosplayers. And Jamie, Andrew and Bret got into the spirit of it by dressing as their favorite characters.
Wayne chose to dress as Wayne Neves from the hit Channel 58 sitcom Fuck You, Wayne.
Join Jamie, Andrew and Bret as they discuss their favorite moments from the event and their thoughts on both comic book culture but also cosplay culture. And how it can be a therapeutic experience for some people.
And a big shout out to Pink Taco in Boston for great service and feeding four very hungry middle aged men.
Our listeners (all three of you) might’ve noticed a skit we featured periodically in the podcast titled The Camaro Man. All the hosts of the Mental Suppository are old enough to remember the shows of the 1980s and the Camaro Man was written to be a parody of the cop shows of that era with the renegade cop who doesn’t play by the rules… or in the case of the Camaro Man doesn’t really understand the rules… and drives a cool car. Which is debatable to our own Wayne Neves who's offhanded remark inspired both Jamie and Bret to begin writing the Camaro Man bits.
So for your listening pleasure we present to you all the skits we’ve recorded so far starring… THE CAMARO MAN.
Over Memorial Day weekend, The Mental Suppository’s Andrew Shanley and his friend Andy Sawyer took an overnight trip to Ticonderoga New York to check out the Star Trek Exhibit. What he experienced made him remember why he became a fan of the show in the first place as he and Andy basked in the detailed reproduction of set designs and props from the original series.
In this installment, Bret and Andrew discuss their long time enjoyment of geek culture as Andrew talks about his experience at the exhibit as well as visiting Fort Ticonderoga for a tour of the historical site. Bret also mentions his experience visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum in London back in 2000 as well as more recently going to National Geographics Immersive King Tut Exhibit at Sowa in Boston with his wife and the fun they had.
You’ll also learn there’s actually a difference between nerd and geek culture. But we celebrate both equally on this podcast. So get both your nerd and your geek on in this episode because we celebrate both equally on this podcast.
There was a time when reading the Sunday comics was an event and every kid who could draw wanted to be a comic strip artist.
While those days might not be long gone, it’s not the same as it once was. From the early part of the 20th Century until the 1970s, the comic strip page featured some of the most glorious artwork every Sunday. Full page strips in full glorious color.
Three of the most talented artists to ever grace the comics page were EC Segar, George Herriman and Walt Kelly who created Thimble Theatre (later just Popeye), Krazy Kat and Pogo. Each displayed a unique take on storytelling, the way language is perceived and politics for its time. While Popeye is still remembered to this day, people might not be familiar with the works of either Herriman or Kelly. We’re here to help you all with that.
In this episode, Bret and special guest co-host Murphy Grumbar discuss what they love about these comics and what makes both the storytelling and the artwork so unique to what we perceive cartoons and comics to be like today.
We encourage our listeners if you are unfamiliar with any of the artists we are discussing to go down to the local library and learn more about them.
The Munsters was a widely popular show which ran from 1964 to 1966. But does anyone under age of 40 really remember the Munsters. Unlike the Addams Family, they didn’t have a movie in the 1990s that kept them cemented in the younger audience’s memory. But the people who are fans of the series are passionate about it. And one of those fans is musician and filmmaker Rob Zombie who has desired to create a movie based on the series he loved and grew up watching. Recently he released a trailer for the project which is scheduled to be released in September which has left people… confused.
Known for movies like House of 1000 Corpses and the Devils Rejects, the trailer for the film comes off looking like a pilot for a television series rather than a major motion picture. And we here at the Mental Suppository have… feelings about this trailer.
Join Bret and Andrew as they discuss what they thought upon first watching the trailer for the film and talk about the overall look of the film. And why the heck does Herman Munster sound like Joe Besser???
If you haven't watched the latest installment of Stranger Things, you might want to watch that first before listening because we're heading into Spoiler country.
Season Four of Stranger Things hit Netflix in two parts. The first seven episodes aired on May 27th and the last two on July 1st. Most fans have praised season four as an improvement over season three. The Duffer Brothers delve deeper into the world they’ve created with this show introducing a central villain who seems like an amalgamation of Freddy Krueger and Pinhead from the Hellraiser movies.
But not only that, there are also elements to this season that might hit home for anyone who were around and remembers the year 1986. One thing is the way the bullies are represented in this season as opposed to previous seasons. Bullies like Steve Harrington and Billy Hargrove were very multifaceted. Steve went from being a smug rich jerk to possibly one of the most popular characters on the show forming a bond with Dustin in particular. Although Billy wasn’t repentant as Steve was, you come to find out that his father is a crueler bully than he is. And it gives the audience a little insight to where his character is coming from and why he is the way he is.
The bullies in this season are more black and white in the form of jock Jason Carver and Eleven’s tormenter Angela. There’s nothing redeeming about these characters. They’re just cruel and spiteful and seem to enjoy it. Jason is domineering and abusive and Angela is a mean girl who is verbally abusive. Both are surrounded by their little group of sycophants that enable them. In Jason’s case, his friends are gutless and don’t stand up to him. With Angela, her little pack of jackals do her bidding. While they both seem more closely aligned with the stuck up rich bullies of a John Hughes film, there is something more real about them than the bullies in previous seasons. Many of us might’ve dealt with an abusive jock like Jason Carver or a mean girl like Angela.
This season also dealt with other topics that were still considered to be very taboo at that time in a very sensitive way that was very true to what was going on in 1986.
But the thing that Stranger Things has done very well is to take elements from both 1980s horror films and 1980s culture and represent it in a very fun and original way. Which is a big reason WHY the show has been a big hit for both people born in the 1980s as well as people who might not remember that decade but have an appreciation for that.
In this episode, Bret and Andrew discuss their memories of 1986 and how this season compares to what they remember that year being like. So get out your walkman and put in your Kate Bush and Metallica mix tape. Because we’re not just going for a walk down memory lane… we’re running up that hill!!
Northeast Comic Con has become a home away from home for the Mental Suppository Podcast. And on Fourth of July weekend they appeared live on stage to do a live script reading of episode two of the 1935 radio drama FLASH GORDON. The Mental Suppository has staged several live script readings before, this time the guys are joined by Lisa Billings and cosplayer Carley Winn to read this radio classic live before an audience. If you weren’t able to make it to the event last weekend, you can hear it now. With added effects to give you the feel of the old time radio plays of yesteryear.Sit back, relax and enjoy this little theater of the mind as you travel with Flash and his friends to the planet Mongo from the comfort of your own home.
Condorman will not be joining the MCU anytime soon. A turkey of a superhero film that tried to cash in on the success of Superman by making the hero completely inept and possessing absolutely NO superpowers whatsoever... unless being inept in a superpower. Starring Michael Crawford who would go onto star in Andrew Lloyd Webbers Phantom of the Opera in a role he has probably spent decades trying to forget. Think if someone thought it would be a great idea if Inspector Clouseau were a superhero. Or a less successful version of The Greatest American Hero. Also starring Oliver Reed who probably forgot the film because he spent most of the time drunk as a hoot owl. Which would explain why he'd accept being in this movie in the first place.
Join Bret, Jamie, Andrew and Wayne as they show inhuman strength sitting through this FOWL picture. Look up in the sky!! It's a bird!! It's a plane!! It's... a bird.
The movie is available to rent on many popular streaming sites if you wish to sync up the audio from this episode with the movie. You can also choose to watch a video version of the episode here:
https://vimeo.com/user178568850
This week the Mental Suppository presents THE BUNK SQUAD. Adapted for radio in color. When the regular police think a case is the bunk they call in… THE BUNK SQUAD.
In this episode Sgt. Morris Howard and his partner Louis Fine are trying to find who stole the Blue Booby Ruby. A rare gem shaped like a bird of the same name. And it’s not a laughing matter. Howard and Fine question many unsavory and questionable characters as they try to discover just who stole the Blue Booby Ruby. And why it’s so funny. And just when they think all hope is lost and they might never discover just who has got their hands on the Blue Booby, the answer is in front of their face all along.
But will Howard and Fine like the answer they get? And is the Blue Booby really a laughing matter? Well, don’t ask us! Listen to the episode and find out for yourselves!!
If you think this is going to be a Man Show, Howard Stern or Mantown style episode, you’re listening to the wrong podcast!! In this episode we discuss women in entertainment that we admire for their incredible talent and the amazing contributions they made to pave the way for the women that followed them in the world of music, film and television. And the ridicule they faced at a time when it was difficult for a woman to assert her independence in an industry that has been dominated by men.
Bret, Jamie and Wayne discuss some of the most talented women in the industry and why their contributions were so important and should never be forgotten. Like in the case of someone like Mabel Normand whose contributions aren’t as remembered as they once were. Please join us as we salute some amazing talents in the hopes you will check out their work and why we think they kick ass!!
There have always been epic movies.
From Cleopatra to Lawrence of Arabia there have always been movies that certain filmmakers have felt need to be told in more time than an hour or so.
But it does seem like in recent years, especially prior to 2020, Hollywood studios have released a host of these three hour epics. Especially in the genre of the superhero movies which have been trying to outdo themselves in both spectacle and feature length.
While enjoyable as many of the films have been, is it too much of a good thing? Are we eating ice cream for breakfast more than we should? While neither the blockbusters nor the desire to go to the theaters are probably not going away any time soon, have these types of films finally burned themselves out?
With the rise of television shows like the Mandalorian, Book of Boba Fett and most recently Obi-Wan Kenobi, people seem to be gravitating towards the 30 minute serialized stories these shows have to offer on streaming. Is this a reflection of our TikTok culture that desires the quick fix of entertainment rather than having to sit through three hours of the latest Avengers or Batman film? And with the budget of some of these shows rivaling that of the blockbusters, will there come a time where the desire for “the cinematic experience” no longer be there?
With the rise of streaming (which was accelerated out of necessity due to the pandemic) it begs the question, why deal with the potential of annoying people who can’t keep quiet at the movies, when you can just enjoy these movies from the comfort of your own home? You can also stop the film and take a bathroom break.
Which cannot be done in the theater.
In this episode Bret, Jamie and Wayne discuss the pro’s and cons of this brave new world of entertainment and what it might this mean for the future of the entertainment industry.
How we enjoy movies this week on the Mental Suppository.
Mystery Science Theater 3000 premiered on KTMA (a UHF station in Hopkins Minnesota) at 6:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1988. The premise was (and still is) fairly simple. An average Joe… or Joel in this case… is shot into space by his evil bosses and forced to watch bad movies as part of an experiment. Joel can’t choose where the movie begins or ends. Because he used those parts to make his robot friends Cambot, CPC, Tom Servo and Crow. Servo and Crow aid Joel as they sit through bad movies making snide comments and quips which is now commonly referred to as “movie riffing”.
It’s a show you either get or you don’t get. For those of us who DO get it, it taps into something we all do naturally while watching a bad movie. Making comments on how bad the movie is. And that’s why we find it so funny. Because the crew at Mystery Science Theater 3000 has perfected the art of “movie riffing” There must be something in the water in Minnesota that makes them so good at it.
The original run of MST3K ended in 1999. Since then the original cast has not been quiet. They’ve started other movie riffing projects such as the Film Crew, RiffTrax, Cinematic Titanic and The Mads are Back, But most recently MST3K has made a triumphant return with original showrunner Joel Hodgeson. First on Netflix and most recently launching their own streaming platform called The Gizmoplex. Both were funded through record breaking Kickstarter Campaigns.
Join Bret and Andrew as they talk about their love for MST3K, their favorite episodes and characters. And if you’re wondering how they eat or breathe. Or other scientific facts. Just repeat to yourself it’s just a podcast. I really should relax.
WLVIII TV Channel 58 might be a station serving the Florida/Peru/Massachusetts area with towers located in a cow field in Barre.. we think.
With quality programming like Dick Prostate Gynecologist PI, Uncle Greg's Boatload of Gosh Darn Fun, The Jerry Warbler Sings A Bunch Of Crap With These Other Jerks Hour, Friday Night Frightening Flick with Dr. Deadmeat, Entertaining Barre with Buford Tums, as well as popular sitcoms like Father on the Sex Offender Registry and That's Not Livestock That's My Wife… and it's Livestock. And of course, the hit cop drama Camaro Man.
On today’s episode Channel 58 looks at some amazing music video mashups. Groups you would never think would sound so good together and yet they do.
Hey!! You got your Black Sabbath in my Doors!! You got your Doors in my Black Sabbath!! Why not have both and shut up?
You can also watch this episode on our YouTube channel
Many times in history comedy has been one of the best things to get us through our darkest times. Not only do they make us laugh, but sometimes they make us think as well as inspire us. It may seem strange that the people whose jobs are to make us laugh are the most passionate about politics. The other thing we’ve learned from history is fascists have no sense of humor and can’t take a joke. Hitler wanted to kill the Three Stooges because they lampooned him in a film. Need I say more?
Today Bret and Scott discuss classic films that had a profound effect on people in very different ways. From the Marx Brothers lighthearted send up in Duck Soup to Charlie Chaplin’s more serious minded comedy in the Great Dictator to the end of the world being heralded in by the soothing sound of Vera Lynn in Dr. Strangelove starring Peter Sellers in three roles including the title character. Each film makes the powers that be look like ridiculous children squabbling over who won the most marbles.
In the case of the Great Dictator, Chaplin gives his iconic character of the Little Tramp, silent for all these years, something very profound to say. Words that still ring true in 2022 as they did back in 1940.
For those unfamiliar with Chaplin's speech, the Mental Suppository highly recommends you watch it here on YouTube.
If you wish to find out more about Charlie Chaplin, Groucho Marx and Peter Sellers we recommend this further reading:
My Autobiography by Charlie Chaplin
Groucho: The Life and Times of Julius Henry Marx by Stefan Kanfer
Mr. Strangelove: A Biography of Peter Sellers by Ed Sikov
Neal Adams was the most influential artist in comic books for over 50 years. From his work on the X-Men at Marvel to the ground breaking work he did with Dennis O'Neil on Batman as well as Green Lantern and Green Arrow, his style has influenced many young artists in the business. He would bring Batman back to his grim and gritty roots as well as bring emotional personal and social issues onto the pages of Green Lantern and Green Arrow ranging from racism to drug addiction. Revealing in dramatic fashion that the Green Arrows own sidekick had become addicted to heroin.
Neal Adams was also an advocate for the rights of his fellow creators leading the charge in the 1970s to get the creators of Superman the credit as well as the financial compensation they had been long overdue to receive.
In this episode Bret and Andrew look back and celebrate the career of a unique artist that changed the landscape of comics as we know it today.
The Kids in the Hall first invaded airwaves on Canadian television with an one hour pilot episode on October 16th 1988. It’s regular series debut on CBC and HBO October 24th 1989. It would soon become a staple on the Comedy Channel. Later to be rebranded Comedy Central (or referred to as the South Park/Daily Show Channel by most people today).
The KITH themselves were formed by members Dave Foley and Kevin McDonald. They were joined by Bruce McCullough and Mark McKinney with Scott Thompson in 1985. They broke up for a short time when McCullough and McKinney were invited to write for Saturday Night Live. They reunited in 1986 when Lorne Michaels saw them perform as a troupe and plans began for a television show. One could see the show as the closest Michaels really ever came to producing a version of Monty Python’s Flying Circus. Although he had attempted that previously with SNL, KITH came the closest by not replicating the “ American variety show” format as well as relying heavily on musical guests and celebrity impersonations SNL does. While being very similar to Python’s surreal style of comedy, KITH left its own thumbprint with a brand of surreal comedy that was unique and different from the series that inspired them.
With Dave, Bruce, Mark, Kevin and Scott ready to bring the band back together for a brand new series on Amazon Prime in May, our own Kids in the… um… basement… Bret, Jame and Andrew discuss their memories of watching the show. What they enjoyed about it, some of their favorite characters, sketches and how KITH inspired their own sense of humor.
They’ll also discuss they’re thoughts about the KITH returning to the screen for the first time since their 2010 miniseries DEATH COMES TO TOWN. A series that blended sketch comedy with an ongoing narrative successfully in a way their movie BRAIN CANDY was not able to do so.
So it doesn’t matter if you’ve got a cabbage for a head, you’re a chicken lady, the king of empty promises or you’re hip, cool and 45. This show is just for you. And if you don’t listen… I’LL CRUSH YOUR HEAD!!
Most people don’t realize Doctor Who’s popularity in the United States started long before the series’s return in 2005. Back in the early 1980s the program gained a cult following when PBS stations started broadcasting episodes from the classic series. For some areas, it started with episodes from Jon Pertwee’s time as the Third Doctor. In other areas it started with the episode from Tom Baker’s time as the Fourth Doctor. His manic eyes, grin, endlessly long scarf and mad hatter-like persona has made him to some fans the definitive incarnation of the Timelord. And in fact, there were some that thought for the longest time Tom Baker was the first actor to portray the eccentric character traveling through time in a spaceship stuck in the physical form of a London Police Telephone Box. Imagine many young American fans' surprise (including myself) when they discovered there were three actors who portrayed the Doctor before him. Or when we discovered that he had turned into a fair haired younger man who fancied cricket and wore a stick of celery on his lapel. And for a generation, it was the initial fear of the series that turned to intrigue which eventually turned to obsession as we rediscovered this eccentric show once more in our late teens and early twenties thanks to it being released on home media in the late 80s and early 1990s.
In today’s episode Bret and guest Murphy Grumbar discuss their first exposure to this unique British institution that has long since developed a loyal following here in the States. And Murphy discusses the Doctor Who group he started where he and the members get stoned and watch classic episodes. So join the discussion. You don’t have to get stoned to enjoy this episode. But if you choose to, we support your rights to do so. And do have a Jelly Baby, won’t you?
Movie riffing is not easy and you should leave it to the professionals… but we did it anyway. Having previously enjoyed riffing an episode of the New Monkees on a previous podcast, the guys decided to sit through BMX BANDITS. A little Australian film that gave the gift of Nicole Kidman to the world. Which, much like Michael Chiklis in the movie WIRED, proved you can do a really terrible, terrible film and STILL manage to have a career.
This film has everything going for it in the wrong direction. So the boys from the Mental Suppository are in for quite a ride. The same can't be said for the movie because it barely has BMX bikes in the entire film. As well as a plot that feels like they tried filming five different movies and then just stuck them together. And if you happen to find yourself a copy of BMX Bandits, you can try and sync up the film with the audio commentary from this episode with this episode.
So sit back, relax and get ready for excitement bigger than Nicole Kidman's hair in the film!!
Spider-Man: Far From Home is the latest in the line of Spidey movies starring Tom Holland as everybody’s friendly neighborhood webslinger. And fans can’t get enough of Holland’s take on both the hero as well as Spidey’s alter ego Peter Parker. The success of the film proved that people are still going to the movies and the MCU still has a few tricks up its sleeve.
Spider-Man’s success in the movies really didn’t happen until the beginning of the 21st Century when special effects finally caught up in a way that you could have Spidey swinging around New York City and have it look believable. Much in the same way the 1978 Superman and the 1989 Batman broke grounds in the way audiences look at superhero movies.
Marvel didn’t always have success in the movies. The only big success they had was on the small screen with the Incredible Hulk television series. Their first attempts at adapting Spidey to the small screen were not… how shall we put it… nearly as successful as what we saw after 2000. A 1978 attempt at a live action series bore very little resemblance to the character and the Spidey featured on the Electric Company around that time was… unique.
The only successful and entertaining Spider-Man live action series at that point was actually produced in Japan. And they gave Spidey a giant robot to fight evil with!!
In this episode, Andrew and Bret talk about Spider-Man in the movies. What has worked. What has fallen flat. And why the current MCU version of Spidey might be the most entertaining version of the character on screen to date. So sit back, relax and check out our all Spider-Man episode, true believers!!
Series finales are never an easy thing. Some series finales are classics such as the cases of Newhart or MAS*H or they are complete duds… we’re looking right at YOU Jerry Seinfeld!! And in the case of shows like Gilligan’s Island, Bewitched or Mork and Mindy, they were canceled without being given a proper resolution. In the case of many long running series, by the time the last episode comes along the series has been so worn and drawn out and many of the main characters in the series become exaggerated caricatures of themselves. So I shouldn’t be surprised that the final episode doesn’t live up to potential a lot of the time.
In this episode Bret, Jamie, Andrew and Wayne choose a few classic (and not so classic series) and discuss how they think a series should have ended. So sit back and relax and look into the alternate reality the Mental Suppository has created.
Some movies are so bad they're good. Others are just plain bad. Bad with no redeeming qualities to them whatsoever. So bad that they're not good enough to be classified as B Movies. These movies are so incompetent and poorly produced they've been relegated to the status of Z MOVIES. In this installment Bret and Andrew discuss two of the more infamous Z Movie directors Coleman Francis and Hal Warren. Both men whose films were featured on Mystery Science Theater 3000 after decades of obscurity. And both the best in their category of completely incompetent filmmakers. Join us for some DEEP HURTING!!
The boys of the Mental Suppository Podcast are live at Northeast Comic Con yet again!! And you would have thought Northeast learned their lesson from the last two times. Bret, Jamie, Andrew and Wayne are talking about the new Batman movie with Robert Pattinson along with Batman and Harley Quinn themselves, Matches Malone and Carley Winn who stop by to say hello.
But not only are they talking about the new Batman film. But it’s also the 30th Anniversary this year of the release of Batman Returns. And for the first time since that film, Michael Keaton is set to don the cape and cowl one more time in both Flashpoint and Batgirl later this year.
It’s all things pop culture at the event that celebrates all things pop culture here in New England. Northeast Comic Con!!
Some television shows stood the test of time. Others fell through the cracks only lasting one or two seasons. But there are a few of those one (or two) season wonders we remember. In this episode Bret and Andrew look back and remember a few forgotten shows that left a mark on them. So sit tight as the boys once again set the WABAC Machine to that magical decade known as the 1980s.
The Monkees were a cultural phenomenon born out of television executives' desire to manufacture a rock group to cash in on the popularity of the Beatles. Over the years, Mike Nesmith, Peter Dork, Mikey Dolenz and Davy Jones have been unfairly written off as the Pre-Fab Four and accused of not playing their own instruments. Which wasn:t true since all four members were musicians (Peter Tork is said to have been a phenomenal banjo player) and a lot of this misconception of their music abilities stems from the fact the powers that be not allowing the four to play or write their own music relying heavily on studio musicians to play on the albums. With all that said, The Monkees still managed to stand the test of time and 50+ years since their debut new fans are still being introduced to both their television series and music.
And despite all that, the Beatles got the Monkees too.
With the recent passing of Mike Nesmith, Bret, Jamie and Andrew talk about watching the Monkees in repeats, what songs they enjoyed and who their favorite Monkee was. Bret talks about his opportunity to talk with Mickey Dolenz about doing voice acting for the Tick animated series as well as his friendship with the late great Harry Nilsson.
And the three attempt to sit through an episode of the 1980s series The New Monkees. Is it as bad as everyone remembers it being? Oh who are WE kidding? NOBODY remembers that series.
So here we come. Walking down the street. Hey hey!! Its the Mental Suppository… talking about the Monkees.
From the mid 1960s until the late 1980s Hanna-Barbera ruled the airwaves of Saturday Morning television. And before that they had success in the 1940s with the Tom and Jerry animated shorts in the theaters. Then later with characters like Huckleberry Hound Yogi Bear and Top Cat. But their success would really begin with the debut of the Flintstones which became the first prime time animated sitcom.
Although Hanna-Barbera wouldn't be the first studio to create animation for the Saturday morning market (rival animation giant Filmation would beat them to the punch), they would become an almost unstoppable juggernaut releasing countless animated series throughout the 1970s and into the 1980s.
In today's episode Bret, Jamie and Andrew reminisce about watching Hanna-Barbera cartoons throughout their childhood and why it made Saturday mornings such an event.
Plus, each of them try and challenge one another to do famous movie quotes in the voice of their favorite Hanna-Barbera character.
It's Saturday morning all over again. So come take a trip to the Funtastic World of Hanna-Barbera.
It’s the 50th episode of the Mental Suppository Podcast and we’re talking about Star Wars… finally!!
Bret, Jamie and Andrew talk about their memories of watching the Star Wars trilogy when they were young. Where they first saw Star Wars and their memories of the movies and toys. As well as what made the original trilogy so memorable for them. And what brought them back to what they loved about the films in their teen years. Which might have something to do with Carrie Fisher in a metal bikini being a badass warrior princess killing Jabba the Hutt. But might also have something to do with Star Wars living on in expanded novels and comics.
It doesn’t feel like a long time ago. But join us as we look back at what made the trilogy so memorable for a generation of fans.
In the days before Fox and the CW, UHF Channels were an independently owned visual playground of old cartoons, reruns, old movies and occasionally locally produced shows. If you were born before 1986 you probably remember the heyday of UHF television and had a favorite station. Which, for those of us who didn't have cable, were the ones you could get in the best.
In this episode Bret, Jamie, Andrew and Wayne reminisce about the shows they watched when they were kids, favorite sitcoms and other shows they might've never discovered if it wasn't for UHF.
Also in this episode the Mental Suppository takes a look at the career of MeatHammer. The greatest heavy metal act to come out of Peru… Massachusetts.
And the latest installment of the Camaro Man.
Don't touch that dial. We got it all on the Mental Suppository!!
Andy Sawyer is an independent filmmaker whose enthusiasm and zeal for making movies is infectious. Growing up in the 1980s, he fell in love with the slasher films and supernatural thrillers of that era. His short films have been featured in countless film festivals. His latest movie THERE IS SNOW ESCAPE is a love letter to the horror films of that era. Bret and Andrew sit down with Andy and talk about the journey of making a unique horror film about a killer snowman. As well as the many impressive practical effects he ans his brother Ken build in their creature shop.
And be sure to see Andy's film debut on Fitchburg Public Access's website February 14th:
http://www.fatv.org
The Mental Suppository is back with it’s first brand new episode for 2022!!
The last time we saw a Ghostbusters movie with their original cast in the roles they made famous (not counting the 2009 video game with the cast lending their voices) was in 1989. A film that some liked and some didn’t. Including members of the cast. After a 2016 reboot, Jason Reitman, son of the original films director Ivan Reitman, decided to bring it back to the series' original universe. But not in a way that everyone expected. And one thing the junior Reitman praised the 2016 reboot for was proving you can do a Ghostbusters movie without the original cast being front and center. This film goes even further by taking Ghostbusting out of New York altogether. Proving the Ghostbusters universe does not have to revolve solely in one city alone.
In this episode, Bret, Jamie, Andrew, Wayne and special guest Sydney Goddard discuss their memories of seeing the original Ghostbusters. As well as their thoughts on the latest incarnation of the franchise. What they really enjoyed about it and what didn’t work. Is there a future for follow up movies? Or is this a nice place to end the series?
Sit back, relax and maybe enjoy this episode. Maybe help yourself to a Twinkie or two.
The Mental Suppository will return with brand new episodes on February 4th. Until then we wish to share a few favorite “leftovers” from our inaugural 2021 season.
We were fortunate enough to do three live shows during that season. Two of which were hosted over Zoom with the third one presented live at Northeast Comic Con and Collectibles Winter Show on Thanksgiving Weekend.
One of the things we wanted to do when developing the Mental Suppository as an ongoing podcast was to involve short table reads during certain episodes. The reads would consist of the hosts and occasional guests taking part and reading a script from an unproduced film or television show. Sometimes reimagining a script in the case of the movie THE CABINET OF DR. CALIGARIi or the 1975 children's show GHOSTBUSTERS produced by Filmation.
We hope to continue this tradition into the coming new year. But for now, sit back and listen to a few we did over the course of the previous year.
The Mental Suppository will return with brand new episodes on February 4th. Until then we wish to share a few favorite “leftovers” from our inaugural 2021 season.
We were fortunate enough to do three live shows during that season. Two of which were hosted over Zoom with the third one presented live at Northeast Comic Con and Collectibles Winter Show on Thanksgiving Weekend.
Our third and final live show of 2021 took place at Northeast Comic Con and Collectibles Extravaganza Winter Edition on Thanksgiving Weekend. This was our second live broadcast at Northeast and this time we decided to do a live reading of the 1940 Radio Drama from the Superman series. It starred Jamie Billings as Superman and Dr. Dahlgren. Wayne Neves as the Yellow Mask. Sydney Goddard as Lois Lane. Bret Herholz as Perry White. And Andrew Shanley as the Announcer. Other characters were voiced by members of the cast.
Look!! Down at the mic!! It’s a nerd. It’s a pain. It’s THE MENTAL SUPPOSITORY!!
The Mental Suppository will return with brand new episodes on February 4th. Until then we wish to share a few favorite “leftovers” from our inaugural 2021 season.
We were fortunate enough to do three live shows during that season. Two of which were hosted over Zoom with the third one presented live at Northeast Comic Con and Collectibles Winter Show on Thanksgiving Weekend.
July 16th the Mental Suppository hosted it's second live event on its official YouTube channel. A live reading of the 1945 radio drama Dick Tracy and the Case of the Big Top Murders. It starred Andrew Shanley as Dick Tracy, Ramona Puchalski-Piretti as Tess Trueheart, Bret Herholz as Vitamin Flintheart, Jamie Billings as Duckfoot the Clown, Sydney Goddard as Zelda the Elephant Trainer, Lisa Billings as Faye Line the Lion Tamer and Scott Graves as Shill the Circus Owner and the Announcer.
Presented with sound effects and incidental music for your listening pleasure. So sit back and relax. And enjoy a Tootsie Roll while you listen to a presentation of a classic radio play.
The Mental Suppository will return with brand new episodes on February 4th. Until then we wish to share a few favorite “leftovers” from our inaugural 2021 season.
We were fortunate enough to do three live shows during that season. Two of which were hosted over Zoom with the third one presented live at Northeast Comic Con and Collectibles Winter Show on Thanksgiving Weekend.
The first of these live events was a presentation of the lost BBC radio drama DR. WHO: A JOURNEY INTO TIME which was hosted on Zoom on May 1st 2021. It starred Devon Kurtz as Dr. Who, Lola Barbare as Susan, Ramona Puchalski-Piretti as Susan’s teacher Miss Jennings with the rest of the cast played by the crew of the Mental Suppository.
The original radio drama starred Peter Cushing reprising the role of Dr. Who, from the two Dalek films he starred in and it was written by longtime Doctor Who television writer Malcolm Hulke. It was a clever retelling of the first William Hartnell television episode with some slight changes to the characters.
We present the live event for the first time with added sound effects and incidental music for your listening pleasure. Sit back, relax and ring in the brand new year with an old friend.
With 2021 coming to an end, so does the Mental Suppository's first year as a podcast. Since March 18th, hosts Bret, Jamie, Kevin, Andrew and Wayne (and friends) have had some great and unique discussions throughout the year. As well as table reads on episodes as well as special online events. Another thing listeners might notice are the podcasts unique… um… sponsors.
Jamie and Bret host a special episode featuring many of the sponsors featured on the podcast.
And on New Years Day they will be available on the Mental Suppository's very first album which you can purchase on Bandcamp:
https://thementalsuppository.bandcamp.com/
So ring in the New Year with your pals at the Mental Suppository. And we hope you will all be back to hear brand new episodes in the upcoming year!!
Join the Mental Suppository on Christmas Eve as Andrew and Bret continue their fan roundtable discussion with friends Lisa, Ainsley and Brian. The holidays are a time to get together. So why not get together with us as you wait for Santa to stop by. Just make sure you put your fireplace out or you'll have a lot to explain to the local authorities.
This week the Mental Suppository continues its round table discussion on all things Fandom. Andrew and Bret continue their conversation with friends Lisa, Ainsley and Brian about growing up and coming of age in fan culture.
The holidays have traditionally been a time for families and friends to get together. And the Mental Suppository is no exception. In part one of the three part discussion, Bret and Andrew are joined by friends Lisa Billings, Ainsley Waller and Brian Brown to discuss what it means for them to be a fan. Talking about movies and television shows they love and have followed for a long time. And how they got into them. So gather with the people you love… or the people you hate… and listen in on our very first fan roundtable.
The Mental Suppository Podcast is back at the Northeast Comic Con and Collectibles recording live from their Winter 2021 Convention. This time Bret, Jamie, Andrew, Wayne and special Guest Sydney Goddard are doing a live read of episode seven of the 1941 Superman radio serial Dr. Dahlgren’s Atomic Beam Machine!! Superman was first given a voice on the radio by Bud Collyer, who also voiced the Man of Steel in animated serials produced by Max Fleischer around the same time and would later return to the role for Filmations 1966 Saturday Morning Cartoon.
If you had already watched the live read either at the Convention or on the Mental Suppository YouTube Channel, you’re in for an auditory treat with this episode. The team has added music and sound effects to the reading much like they did with their live read of the Dick Tracy Radio play. To give the audience the feeling they are listening to an old time radio broadcast.
So sit back, close your eyes and open up your theatre of the mind. Because this looks like a job for… THE MENTAL SUPPOSITORY PODCAST!!
Fellowship of the Rings arrived in theaters 20 years ago this year. There had been prior attempts to realize JRR Tolkiens epic masterwork on the silver screen as animated movies. But it wasn't until 2001 that technology had finally caught up in way that could properly capture that tale.
But it was some of the proposed projects that weren't produced that might be the most interesting. One of which could have actually starred the Beatles.
In this episode Bret, Kevin and Andrew discuss their memories of seeing Fellowship of the Rings as well as what a Lord of the Rings film starring the Fab Four might've sounded like.
The success and longevity of Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies was the combination of Mel Blanc’s voice acting, great directors, imaginative writers… AND the music talents of composer and musical arranger Carl Stalling. A person that doesn’t get a great deal of credit for the cartoons being so memorable with so many fans.
But it was his vast knowledge of both classical, contemporary and music made famous from Tin Pan Alley. As well as the musical cues he would add to the characters' actions that would make the cartoons resonate in people's memories. You might not know songs like Power House, A Cup of Coffee, A Sandwich and You or Blues in the Night by name. But you have probably heard these songs in countless Warner Brothers Animations thanks to Carl’s amazing ear for music.
After he retired in 1954, Carl would pass these skill’s to his direct successor Milt Franklyn who would continue to follow this successful formula until his untimely death in 1962. It would not be until the release of Box Office Bunny, Tiny Toon Adventures and Animaniacs in the 1990s that Warner Animation would revisit Carl Stalling’s style of composing and arrangement.
In this episode Bret, Jamie, Andrew and Wayne discuss and listen to some of the music of Carl Stalling and relive what they loved about the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies they watched as they listen to the song cues created by Stalling and his orchestra.
Join us as we listen to some truly Looney Tunes and some very Merrie Melodies, won’t you?
Gary Sohmers has been on the convention scene since 1985 when he launched Northeast Collectibles Extravaganza which would eventually morph into Northeast Comic Con and Collectibles Extravaganza. Which has become the biggest little convention in New England offering an affordable family friendly atmosphere that is guaranteed NEVER BORING with a wide variety of celebrity guests, comic artists and collectible vendors.
As well as being a showrunner for a popular comic convention, Gary is an appraiser with an amazing knowledge of pop culture memorabilia who has been on Antiques Roadshow. he is the writer and producer of a rock opera called BEASTIES.
Andrew and Bret sat down with Gary to discuss his career running a successful convention and some of the friendships he has made with the likes of Adam West. Who was a guest at Northeast shortly before he sadly passed away in 2017. As well as discussing being the very first convention in the New England area to open up again right after the state lifted the Covid lockdown begun in 2020. He also gives a demonstration to Andrew and Bret of his expertise in the area of appraising pop culture memorabilia.
And makes an announcement that quite literally knocks Andrews socks off… but you’ll have to listen to the episode to find that out.
Check out Northeast Comic Con and Collectibles 2021 Thanksgiving weekend November 26th-28th in Boxborough Massaschusetts. Parking is free!!
But be sure to listen to our interview with Gary first. It’s most certainly guaranteed NOT BORING!!
With Daniel Craig turning in his license to kill with the release of No Time To Die, the crew of The Mental Suppository looks back at the James Bond series. Their favorite movies as well as who was their favorite actor to portray 007.
And even look at some of the odder films outside the Eon series.
So join the Mental Suppository as they Bond over 007. And feel free to fix yourself a martini. Shaken not stirred.
Halloween Episode Part Two:
As Halloween is just two days away, Andrew regails us with more terrifying tales of working as a Hotel Manager. Some you’d just have to hear to believe. Also the crew discuss their memories of Halloweens long gone by. The old Ben Cooper costumes as well as some unconventional movies people might not readily consider Halloween viewing that people might want to check out.
Also in this installment of the Mental Suppository is episode one of CAMARO MAN!! A different kind of PI for everyone out there who loves 80s pop culture, Magnum PI and… um… Camaro’s.
So grab your bag of Halloween candy (which we imagine you stole from your kids or a younger relative) and enjoy some spooky fun with the gang of the Mental Suppository. All treats with no tricks… well… maybe a few tricks.
The Addams Family and the Munsters are two television shows eternally linked to one another. Both debuted merely weeks from one another in September of 1964 (The Addams Family a week before the Munsters did) they introduced audiences to two very unconventional American Families. The Addams Family was inspired by a series of one panel gag comics created by cartoonist Charles Addams published in the New Yorker. The concept for the Munsters dates back to 1945 when Universal Studios wanted to create a movie that took it’s best loved monsters and turn them into a family unit. It does seem slightly strange that two separate networks (Addams Family debuted on ABC and the Munsters debuted on CBS) would develop shows about creepy families. There have been some discussions over the years. Did one rip off the other? Or was it just a case of coincidence? The other thing the shows have in common is a very loyal fanbase.
With the release of the second animated Addams Family movie on October 1st, a Netflix Series based on Wednesday Addams from Tim Burton and a Munsters movie being dRob Zombie himself, what better time to talk about two of the best loved ghoulish families than on Halloween?
Join Bret, Jamie, Andrew, Kevin and Wayne as they discuss both the Addams Family and the Munsters. Both the various live action and animated television shows and movies. Which one they liked better. And what would Thing say if he could talk?
So get a witch’s shawl on. A broomstick you can crawl on. We’re going to make a call on The Mental Suppository.
Saturday Morning and Weekday Afternoon Cartoons would finally come to an end with the demand of Educational Programs from parent/teacher groups as well as networks putting more reality talk shows on weekday afternoons.
The other factor was the introduction of Cartoon Network. A television network solely dedicated to both repeats of classic cartoons as well as original shows that would over time become classics.
Over time Cartoon Network would introduce Adult Swim. Which would also make a significant mark on television animation.
The other thing that happened in the late 1980s was the return of prime time animation with the debut of the Simpsons. Something that hadn't been seen (or successful) since the Flintstones in the 1960s.
For the longest time the Simpsons was the only game in town over the years shows like Family Guy and Bob's Burgers would join the animation domination of Sunday Night prime time television.
So join us for part three of what has made television animation so great.
THE RISE OF WEEKDAY AFTERNOON CARTOONS AND THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF SATURDAY MORNINGS…
Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, Cartoons ruled the airwaves on Saturday mornings. With Hanna-Barbara as the undisputed kids of television animation. But don't think for a moment Filmation was going to fade away that easily. In 1983 Lou Scheimer would once again lead the charge with He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. The very first with what would be known as FIRST RUN SYNDICATION. Or more commonly referred to as Weekday Afternoon Cartoons.
Much like the way Saturday mornings began, cartoons on the weekday mornings and afternoons were just rebroadcasts of the cartoons originally shown on Saturday mornings during the 1960s and 1970s on what were the UHF Channels. That changed when Scheimer and Filmation had struggled to get the major networks onboard with doing an animated series based on Mattel's Masters of the Universe toy line. They decided to release the show on the independently owned UHF channels throughout the country. The success of MOTU paved the way for other toy shows such as TRANSFORMERS AND GI JOE to follow suit. Because of laws passed that would put an end to the toy shows, Weekday afternoons and Saturday mornings would once again change with the success of Who Framed Roger Rabbit and the public's interest shows of a similar nature that would introduce viewers to Tiny Toon Adventures, Animaniacs and the Disney Afternoon block of shows.
But like all good things, Weekday and Saturday mornings would eventually come to an end. Only to be reborn as something completely different.
It's the 1980s all over again. You have the power and now you know the shows introduced in that era were truly truly truly outrageous. And more than meets the eye.
SATURDAY MORNING CARTOONS IN THE 1960S AND 1970S…
Many have pointed to Lou Scheimer as one of the key architects of Saturday Morning Television as we know it when his company Filmation one upped animation titans Hanna-Barbera by not only purchasing the rights to do the very first Superman cartoon for the Saturday morning market, but also getting Bud Collyer, the man who originally provided the voice for Superman on radio and in the Max Fleischer animations in the 1940s.
Before this, most animation broadcast on Saturday television were either old cartoon shorts originally shown in theaters repackaged for television or animated series shown on prime time such as the Flintstones or Johnny Quest.
The launch of Superman by Filmation was the beginning of animated shows specifically produced for the Saturday morning market. In the following decades Hanna-Barbera would catch up to Filmation, flooding the market with a glut of television series. Some are more memorable than others.
In part one, Bret, Kevin and Andrew discuss and look back at some of their favorite shows growing up. So wake up early and watch the test pattern with a bowl of cereal as you once again wait for your favorite programs to come on.
Where were you on a Friday night between 1985 to 1994? Were you out on a date or were you not even born yet? Or were you like some of us not old enough to drive yet stuck at home? Then you were most likely watching ABC's TGIF line up of programs like Perfect Strangers, Full House and Family Matters.
Or you might've been trying to watch scrambled porn.
Jamie and Wayne host the first ever game show episode of the Mental Suppository Podcast to test our memories of the sitcoms of that era. So why not sit back, get a few snacks and take a trip down memory lane with us…
...or if you weren't born yet, find out how your parents lived. It's almost as funny as Mr. Belvedere sitting on his balls.
The Black Cauldron is said to be the movie that nearly destroyed Disney Animation. Based on the second book in the YA series The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander and released in 1985, audiences weren’t prepared for an animation from Disney that was both very dark in tone and had no characters spontaneously breaking out in song. To add injury to insult, it was beat out by the Care Bear Movie released at the same time.
But there have been devoted fans who did enjoy the movie when it was first released through the love of Alexander's books and over the years the movie has developed a cult following and people have developed an appreciation for the movie that it didn’t get upon first release.
In this episode Bret, Jamie, Andrew and special guest Sydney Goddard-Herholz discuss their memories of the Black Cauldron. The reasons why it didn’t strike a chord with an audience in 1985 and what makes the movie really unique and enjoyable in the pantheon of classic Disney animations.
We have all worked jobs that have been less than enjoyable. Whether it have been dealing with rude customers or managers and assistant managers who seem to go out of their way to create a toxic work environment. In this episode, our own Andrew Shanely tells us about some of his own “hotel nightmares” working as a manager for a popular chain of hotels. We can’t say which. All we can say is welcome and come enjoy the episode with us.
Hippocrisis is a one man punk rock band fronted by Tom Domincovich. Unlike many bands and musicians out there, Tom isn’t doing it for financial gain or becoming famous. He does it because he loves to make music and perform live. And any money made he donates it to friends in need or worthy causes.
He uses his songs as an outlet to sing about the importance of mental health awareness and trying to break the stigma that it’s a subject you need to keep to yourself. And it’s okay to ask for help. Singing his songs is a form of therapy for him.
He will be performing live at the famous Ralph's Rock Diner on Grove Street in Worcester Massachusetts Thursday September 16th at 8PM in support of his latest EP Not Cool Enough For Spotify.You can purchase that album as well as his previous albums on Bandcamp today:
https://hippocrisis.bandcamp.com/
Proceeds from the album, merch and shows have been going to help Tom’s very good friends Scott and Lizzie Crockett. Who are both going through medical hardships. You can also help out by donating directly to Scott and Lizzie’s Gofundme page today:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/scott-and-lizzy-crockett-relief-fund
Who Framed Roger Rabbit is a film that instantly became a classic when it was released in 1988.
But if you haven't read Who Censored Roger Rabbit, the book it was based on, you're only getting half the story.
When Gary K. Wolf wrote it in 1981, it was practically optioned as a movie the moment it was published. And despite having the name Roger Rabbit in the title, it's a completely different and unique tale!
This week Bret, Jamie, Kevin and Andrew discuss with Gary his memories of writing the book as well as stories from on the set of a movie.
Come meet the man who found Roger Rabbit.
Earlier this year, the Muppet Show dropped on Disney+!! It was something fans of the Muppets had been waiting for. Since Disney acquired the Muppets, there had been various television attempts as well as movies based on Jim Henson’s creations. But what fans wanted to see was the original series rereleased on home media or as part of Disney’s brand new streaming platform. They finally got their wish.
The Muppet Show was a hard sell for creator Jim Henson. Although he had found some success on Sesame Street, the hardest hurdle was convincing American networks that the Muppets weren’t just for kids. That he could create a show that adults will enjoy and laugh at. Two pilot episodes (The Muppets Valentine Show and Sex and Violence) failed to impress top brass. And Jim’s attempt to integrate the Muppets on Saturday Night Live was less than a hit for both fans and members of the cast. The late John Belushi referred to them as the Mucking Fuppets. But the interest of one Lord Lew Grade and moving the production to London, England finally proved the Muppets could be a big hit on American television.
In this episode Bret, Andrew, Kevin and special guest star Ramona Puchalski-Piretti discuss their memories of seeing the Muppet show for the first time as a child. Who their favorite characters were. And what drew them to a puppet show that wasn’t just for kids. But adults could watch and enjoy it too. September 5th will mark 45 years since the Muppets first debut on American Television. But it has been 66 years since Jim first unleashed his concept of the Muppets (and Kemit himself) onto unsuspecting viewers when the television series Sam and Friends debuted in 1955.
Once again, it’s time to play the music. It’s time to light the lights. It’s time to meet the Muppets on the Mental Suppository tonight!!
The movie Heavy Metal turns 40 this year. For many of us we were too young to see the movie when it first came out. We discovered it later through the movie media boom of the 1990s. Directed by future Ghostbusters head honcho Ivan Reitman, it was an animated film based on the comic book anthology magazine of the same name. Most of the scenes in the movie were based on short stories originally published in the magazine tied together in this plot revolving around the sinister Loc-Nar. The film also featured the voices of John Candy, Eugene Levy, Harold Ramis and founder of National Lampoon Magazine co-founder Doug Kenny (who died a year before this movie was released).
In this episode, Bret, Jamie, Andrew, Wayne and guest Kevin Morgan discuss their memories of seeing the movie for the same time. As well as the soundtrack which is equally as memorable as the movie itself.
And no. Ralph Bakshi was not involved in the production of this film.
Buzz Dixon’s writing resume has included Thundarr the Barbarian, Jem, Inhumanoids, Alvin and the Chipmunks, Tiny Toon Adventures, Tarzan and the Super 7 (the Web Woman installments), Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light, Dungeons & Dragons and the Teen Wolf animated series. He has worked for Filmation, Ruby-Spears, Sunbow and Warner Animation. He has also worked with some legendary people including Jack “The King” Kirby. The man who basically created the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe as we know it. But it’s GI Joe he’s best remembered. And wrote some of the most memorable episodes for the series using his time in the Army to help guide the writing team in creating stories for a military team.
Bret, Jamie and Andrew continue their discussion about work in the industry and the weekday afternoon and Saturday morning. And his thoughts about the revival of interest in 1980s property. And what it was like being part of creating those properties back then. As well as advice to young writers who wish to get their ideas out.
If you grew up watching GI Joe in the 1980s, you saw Buzz Dixon’s name on a lot of those episodes. He wrote some of the most memorable stories for the series and today Bret, Jamie and Andrew discuss another great story THE MOST DANGEROUS MAN IN THE WORLD. A story Buzz had written as a definitive origin about the man who founded Cobra. The ruthless terrorist organization determined to rule the world. Sadly, his vision never made it to the air. However, in 2016 he published an ebook of his original script. Which gave fans a glimpse at what could have been. And incidentally, what was a better story than what fans got in 1986.
In part one of the interview, Buzz discusses his memories of coming up with the episode as well as writing the ebook of it. And other memories of both his time as a writer and how his time in the military helped influence the way he approached his writing on a series like GI Joe.
By the end, you’ll know all about the Most Dangerous Man In The World. And knowing is half the battle.
Masters of the Universe: Revelations, Kevin Smith’s continuation of the 1983 hit series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, has hit Netflix. And the Mental Suppository Podcast is there!!
Since the series dropped last Friday, there has been a lot of reaction to the show and the choices Kevin Smith has made in his vision of continuing the adventures of He-Man, Skeletor, Teela and so many other characters for those of us who grew up in the 1980s remember from the original series. Some have praised it. Some have been less than happy with the results.
But what do WE think?
This week Bret, Jamie and Waye watch episode one live as fellow host Andrew gives a breakdown of the action from the episode. For the first time on the program, giving an honest first reaction to the show without seeing it beforehand. If you have not seen episode one just yet, we advise you might want to wait till you’ve watched it before you listen to this podcast. If you have seen the episode or you don’t give a rat’s ass about spoilers, happy to have you along for the ride.
So come along for the ride and brace yourself for the revelations Kevin Smith and company have in store for us!! The Power is back. And with no extra charges.
Masters of the Universe hit toy shelves in 1982. Introducing the character of He-Man.
Bret, Jamie, Andrew and Wayne discuss their first impressions of the new series from the trailers as well as their memories of both the toy line, the Filmation animated series and the movies growing up. And perform a scene from an unproduced Masters of the Universe production. The power has returned with Masters of the Universe: Revelation. And it’s only part one!!
A special TWO HOUR episode!!
40 years ago the dynamic duo of Steven Spielberg and George Lucas introduced to the world to the swashbuckling fedora wearing unshaven archaeologists and adventurer INDIANA JONES in a film that was destined to not only be a classic of the 1980s but a classic film of any era. Bathed in the adventure serials of George Lucas's youth, the film had the right balance of excitement, laughs, thrills as well as a scare or two that brought audiences back over and over again. Spawning three sequels since its initial release with a fourth one in the work.
In this episode, Bret, Andrew, Jamie and Wayne talk about their memories of not only Raiders but the other movies in the Indiana Jones franchise. As well as their feelings of Harrison Ford donning that familiar old fedora once again.
Are you ready for another installment in the series? Or is it well past Dr. Jones's time to ride off into the sunset.
You decide!!
Comic conventions are returning. And those mugs from the Mental Suppository Podcast were there for it!! Northeast Comic Con is the first convention in Massachusetts since the state reopened. Bret, Jamie and Andrew talk with artists, fans and Cosplayers about their feelings about conventions returning and their past experiences on the convention circuit. And for anyone unfamiliar with Northeast Comic Con, it's probably one of the most fan friendly laid back conventions out there. That guarantees never boring and fun for the whole family with great guests. And the best way to get back into the swing of things for fans who have missed going to them.
Ghostbusters was a hit when it arrived on screen in 1984. Big enough that it spawned an animated series, toy line, a second movie in 1989 and eventually a reboot in 2016. And now a third movie in the original series is due to be released this year after being shelved because of last year’s pandemic. But that begs the question. Do we really need another Ghostbusters film? While both the 1989 sequel and the 2016 reboot did have people who enjoyed those respective movies, there are some that might argue that the original Ghostbusters was a perfectly good self-contained movie that didn’t need a follow up. The reason the sequel was made in the first place was pressure from the studio because of the success of the animated series rather than anyone involved in the original feeling the need for a second movie. It’s time to get in your jumpsuit, throw on your proton pack, hop into the Ecto-1 and take a ride with the crew from the Mental Suppository Podcast as they discuss all things Ghostbusters. Including both incarnations of the Filmation series. You really think they’d leave that out?
While you’re at it, pour yourself a bowl of Ghostbusters cereal and crack open an Ecto Cooler.
The world of filmmaking continues to evolve. With software and technology making it easier and easier for both novice and seasoned filmmakers to pursue their imaginations and create films outside the restrictions of the entertainment industry. Not to mention platforms like YouTube and social media making it easier and quicker to get their films out to a larger audience we couldn’t have dreamed of back in the 1980s or 1990s. As technology changes, so does our outlook at how movies are produced. On this episode Andrew, Jamie and Bret talk with filmmakers Andy Sawyer, Bob Heske, Joshua Leonard and Skip Shea. Four independent filmmakers who have unique approaches to creating film. But all work outside the confines of the establishment and create films that are both unique and entertaining. We chat with them about how they got started, what are some of their inspirations and their preferred methods of creating a film. If you’re someone who wants to create a film of your own, we hope our guests will inspire you.
The world of filmmaking continues to evolve. With software and technology making it easier and easier for both novice and seasoned filmmakers to pursue their imaginations and create films outside the restrictions of the entertainment industry. Not to mention platforms like YouTube and social media making it easier and quicker to get their films out to a larger audience we couldn’t have dreamed of back in the 1980s or 1990s. As technology changes, so does our outlook at how movies are produced. On this episode Andrew, Jamie and Bret talk with filmmakers Andy Sawyer, Bob Heske, Joshua Leonard and Skip Shea. Four independent filmmakers who have unique approaches to creating film. But all work outside the confines of the establishment and create films that are both unique and entertaining. We chat with them about how they got started, what are some of their inspirations and their preferred methods of creating a film. If you’re someone who wants to create a film of your own, we hope our guests will inspire you.
Anyone who was a kid in the 1980s remembered the excitement generated by the 1986 Transformers Movie. And most probably remember the fallout when they discovered many of their favorite characters were being killed off in what series writer and movie script consultant Flint Dille described as "a massive charge of the light brigade"
One of those characters was Optimus Prime.
It was a move by Hasbro to clear away the discontinued 1984 line and excite fans with the 1986 line introducing a hip and flashy new leader to replace Optimus Prime.
It didn't work.
While it was a box office bomb on its release, the film has gained a firm fan following in the years that followed. And if they didn't kill off Optimus Prime in such a shocking and dramix way, Jamie, Bret and Andrew might not be talking about it now.
It's weekday afternoons in the 80s all over again. Grab yourself either some Hydrox cookies and milk or some Drakes Ring Dings, fix that coat hanger you're using on you TV as an anttena and reminisce on Transformers the Movie… not the Michael Bay one.
According to Wikipedia Chap hop is music originating from England that mixes the hip hop genre with elements from the Chappist or steampunk subcultures and stereotypical English obsessions such as cricket, tea and the weather.
This week Bret along with guest host and founder of M the Media Project Scott Graves discuss chap hop with Madam Misfit, Mr. B the Gentleman Rhymer and Professor Elemental. Talking about the creation of the character/persona they have adopted for their stage presence. How they got into chap hop and electroswing. And creating music that has sometimes spun off into animation, radio plays, television and comic books. Proof positive this can be a truly multimedia artform. And lends itself very well to storytelling and world building.
But it’s also a genre of music that tends to send a positive message to its listeners and prefers to build up as opposed to tear down.
But above all, it’s so much fun to listen to.
We also discuss with Madam Misfit, Mr. B and Professor Elemental how as performers and artists they have gotten through the pandemic and trying to maintain a living during a time when the world has shut down and live performances were put on a hold. As well as how the internet and technology played a part in having to substitute what they could not do live as we waited for the world to open up again.
So, pull up a chair, pour yourself a cup of tea, or a glass of Sherry. Or opium if that’s your thing. And come be our guest in a lively discussion with three very talented artists.
This episode featured the songs STEP ASIDE BOYS by Madam Misfit, THE HOUSE By Mr. B the Gentleman Rhymer and THE CATS PYJAMA’S by Professor Elemental. And be sure to purchase Madam Misfit, Mr. B and Professor Elemental’s music on Bandcamp and follow all three on social media to show your support. And listeners should know the opening theme for the Mental Suppository DISTURBING was composed by Mr. B the Gentleman Rhymer.
Katie Willert can be described as a tour de force. A very funny writer and performer, Katie can add artist and photographer to her repertoire. A contributor to Cracked.com, she was a writer performer for their web series After Hours (2010-2020) as well as a guest on fellow contributor Michael Swaim’s follow up series Off Hours! (2019). As well as the series Those Aren’t Muskets, Adventures in Jedi School and Disney Owns You. Katie stops by and discusses with Bret and Andrew what inspires her writing, some of her influences, some of the new projects she has been working on and how she has been getting through the pandemic being a writer and a performer. So come on in and get to know Katie!!
Some might say (and rightfully so) it was Superman starring Christopher Reeve in 1978 that proved a superhero movie could be a box office success. Superman has been one of the most popular superheroes and the one to spark the popularity of costumed heroes in 1938. But despite this there have only been a few times where the character has been portrayed that has caused universal praise. The most recent portrayal featuring Henry Cavill as the Man of Steel has been mixed. Some have liked it while others have been put off by this grimmer version of a character and miss the wink and cheerful optimism of past portrayals. In this episode, Bret, Kevin, Jamie and Andrew look at all the versions of Superman. On the big and small screen as well as on the radio. And discuss what their favorites are and why. So it’s up, up and away for another high flying installment of the Mental Suppository Podcast.
At one time, to have a syndicated newspaper strip was every kids dream. The comics page in the Sunday newspaper was a wonderland of great artwork and storytelling that ranged from humorous funny animal strips of Walt Kelly's Pogo to the daring adventures of Alex Raymond Flash Gordon. As newspapers have declined, comic strips are a shell of what they once were. Reduced to a redundant gag a day form. cookie cutter characters and infantile art.
In this week's episode Bret talks with writer Mark Kneece and cartoonists Brian Nelson and Bob Pendarvis. All of which have written or drawn comic strips for newspapers. Or have taught classes in cartooning and comic strip art. Giving their experiences in the rigors of working for a newspapers or have given art instruction on the subject. And talked about the strips and cartoonists that inspired them.
So lets take out the Sunday paper, pour out favorite cereal and enjoy some comics.
Horror is a genre nearly as old as the art of filmmaking itself. Unlike other genres (i.e. film noir or westerns) that have come and gone, horror has endured in one form or another. From the Universal Monster Movies, to the gothic Hammer Films not to mention the slice and dice Jason and Freddy Krueger films, people love to be scared. And when you think the genre has burned itself out, much like the undead adversary in a horror film, it seems to come back time and time again. In this installment, Kevin, Jamie and Bret discuss why horror films have lasted for so long. And they’ll discuss some of their favorite horror films as well and why they enjoy them. It’s time to board the HORROR EXPRESS. And your ticket awaits you.
Opinions on the recent Zack Snyder cut of Justice League have been split. Some who think it’s the greatest film since Citizen Kane. Others who think it’s a cinematic equivalent to a dumpster fire. And we here at the Mental Suppository promise not to make it any easier. Join Andrew and Bret as they discuss their feelings about a four hour superhero film. What worked and what didn’t work. And did it really HAVE TO BE four hours long? Did Zack Snyder do his vision Justice? Or was it really not that super… man? Join us, will you?
There’s a lot more to voice acting than just funny voices. And a great voice actor can make you believe there is an entire room of people when in fact it’s only them in that room. The Mental Suppository Podcast’s own Kevin Barbare is a veteran of radio television and film. Not only known for his spot on impressions of celebrities or politicians. But also his ability to create original voices as well. In this installment, Kevin discusses how he broke into voice acting, who influenced him growing up. As well as some of his more unique voice acting gigs. And even puts his talents on the spot along with the rest of the Mental Suppository crew. School is in session this week and we hope you did your homework. Because there IS going to be a pop quiz at the end of class.
In part two of our interview with author Paul Magrs, he discusses some of the misconceptions he dealt with from teachers and fellow students about being a writer when he was young. How both Doctor Who and Marvel Comics helped shape his own work and imagination as he got older with the characters and landscapes he would create in his own stories. Paul has continued to use the time during lockdown to write new stories and art as well as host live readings over social media. And he reads for us from a story he wrote titled Stardust and Snow. A true tale about a friend of his who got the chance to meet David Bowie. And the touching wise words of comfort the Goblin King himself gave his friend. Please join us for part two. You really don’t want to miss it!!
Paul Magrs is a writer who has created his own infinite universe of memorable characters and stories. From the tie-in fiction he has written for Doctor Who novel and audio which he introduced his own creation of the interdimensional adventuress Iris Wildethyme to the fans of Doctor Who to his original creations of Vince Cosmos, Dodie Golightly and Brenda and Effie. As well as a certain stuffed sentient Art Critic Panda who has appeared in both Paul’s Doctor Who tales as well as his Brenda and Effie stories. Who loves nothing more than a good gin and tonic and giving anyone who gets in his way a good punch up the hooter.
Paul writes stories that are fun, spooky, packed with humor and filled with heart. Even his most out of this world and wildest characters feel as though you could sit down and enjoy a good cup of tea with.
Join us for part one of this discussion as we chat about what were some of the things that have inspired the stories Paul has written. How he has been getting through and creating new projects and stories during lockdown. And he tells us about the latest Brenda and Effie novel GAME OF CRONES as well as a surprise novel he released in Christmas of 2020 titled HUNKY DORY.
Johan Michaels is a new author who brings with him a fresh perspective in his writing. Both his latest novels Future Machine and Warpaint were not only inspired by what he loves, admires and enjoys in science-fiction and fantasy. But also his own experience with the pandemic and lockdown helped to shape the vision of that world.
Both Future Machine and Warpaint he creates a dystopian future that paints a unique landscape that doesn't pin itself down to one theme. While Future Machine takes place in an urban cyberpunk, Warpaint takes place in what can only be described as a futuristic spaghetti western. But both feeling like they exist in the same universe Michaels continues to weave.
Said to have been born out of necessity, Johan Michaels is a writer that wants to experiment in all different kinds of genres rather than be pinned down by one. His books are fun and exciting while showcasing his insight, intelligence as well as his own deep feelings of right and wrong.
Let us introduce you to a new and unique voice and step inside the universe of Future Machine.
By his own admission, screenwriter, game designer and author Flint Dille considers himself almost famous. He also never forgets how fortunate he was to be writing for television animation during what he has referred to in his book as ‘the geek 1980s’. In the forefront of the storytelling landscape from his early work with Ruby-Spears to the memorable episodes he wrote for both GI Joe and later as a writer and script editor for the Transformers. Working with some of the biggest luminaries of our time including George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, Jack Kirby, Frank Miller and Gary Gygax.
It’s our Inaugural Episode!
For Episode 1 we discussed Batman the Animated Series.
Nearly 30 years later and we’re still talking about it like it came out recently. The show created a format and a formula that the episodes don’t feel dated or trapped in a particular period of time. It was a series that celebrated what we enjoyed about Batman and the characters long history. Not only delving into the characters extensive rogues gallery but also creating some memorable rogues as well. Come and listen to why we think the Animated Series might very well be the best incarnation of the Caped Crusader ever.